Unbeknownst to many, having a heart attack can increase the risk of recurrent heart attacks among men and women. Several contributing factors, ranging from age to unhealthy lifestyle choices or certain health conditions, increase this risk. Therefore, older adults and people who have endured a heart attack must pay attention to the warning signs and symptoms of recurrent heart failure. However, more importantly, one must avoid making certain mistakes to prevent this condition.

Working out excessively
If forced to pump blood more excessively during any physical activity, the heart can fail at some point due to wear and tear. This risk is high among patients already diagnosed with cardiovascular problems and high blood pressure. Experts recommend at least 30 mins of physical exercise daily to keep the heart muscles strong.

Not making lifestyle changes
Healthy changes in daily nutrition and lifestyle will only help improve overall cardiovascular function. However, resisting change or not following specific nutrition and activity guidelines recommended by a healthcare expert increases the risk of heart failure, among other conditions. When coupled with unhealthy habits and poor lifestyle choices, this can result in chronic complications.

Skipping prescriptions
After an episode of heart attack or failure, one must follow prescription treatments suggested by a health expert without fail to keep the organ’s health in check. Since some prescriptions involve certain side effects and complications, it is best to discuss alternatives with the healthcare provider before stopping them completely. Cardiologists will suggest alternatives that are less reactive, more suitable for daily dosage, and involve fewer side effects.

Thinking heart attacks develop with the same intensity
Not all heart attack episodes are the same. Some cardiac arrests will be mild in nature, whereas others can be life-threatening. Even healthy people are at risk of heart failure, so that shouldn’t stop one from making healthy lifestyle choices. Heart attacks can also be sudden and intense; therefore, one must remain vigilant and opt for preventive care to avoid complications.

Not knowing the warning symptoms
Heart attacks develop silently, so one must be aware of the warning signs and symptoms of the condition. Not everyone will feel the same chest pain, breathlessness, or wheezing. Men and women experience slightly mild variations of these symptoms that are difficult to associate directly with heart failure. Therefore, being well-informed about what to look out for is crucial to lower the risk of heart failure.